This was probably my last New England brook trout of the season. The conditions were right on an unseasonably fall weekend and I got out after them. The water was warm and the fish were willing to play ball.

I caught almost every one out of deep, slow water. I avoided riffles and runs – both when casting and wading. It was a matter of preference, but it was a preference that was based upon sensitivity to what might be happening in those spots. The brookies weren’t spawning in that creek. I am virtually sure of it. However, I wanted to provide a buffer in the chance that I was wrong. So I targeted certain fish in certain spots.

And I’m not conflicted at all.

It isn’t as though I’m flippant. These brook trout matter to me. Their population and their well being is important. I did my due diligence even before I thought about which flies to use. I did my research before I left and while I was on the water. I have a few decades of experience to lean on when it comes to figuring out what fish are doing. So, at least for that day, I kept fishing.

When should you stop fishing? Here are three things to consider:

What are the laws?

While it is common to grumble about the fishery management practices of state and federal entities, the laws are there for a reason. Maybe they are too loose. Maybe they are too strict. At least you have a guideline to work off of. For example, I know that a local trout stream has conditions that facilitate an early spawning season. The state agency reflects this, as they close the water a few weeks early. It takes away the guesswork. It protects the fragile fishery. Of course, just because you can it doesn’t mean that you should. Which leads to the question…

What is the data?

Fish don’t spawn willy-nilly. The conditions have to be right. Water temperature is a significant factor in the spawning behavior of fish. Brook trout, for example, will begin their spawning behavior  once the water temperature stays in the high 40’s. While this generally lines up with late-September to early-November in their native ecosystems in the USA, it varies based upon a number of variables. Carrying a thermometer, or leaning on the data provided by an agency such as the USGS, will help you stay informed.

What do you see?

This is perhaps your best indicator of if you should be fishing or not. You might be legally able to fish. You might have temperature readings that indicate fish shouldn’t be spawning. But you might see fish sitting on redds. That information is vital for making the determination as to where, how, and if you are going to fish. Are other fish sipping bugs on the surface of a deep pool? Cast! As long as you’re legal and responsible – have at it.

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I am pretty conservation minded and consider myself a steward of our resources. However, I’m also not going to police the hearts and minds of every person who casts a fly or worm in “spawning season.” For every poacher with cruel intentions and social media attention whore there are dozens of people who are just fishing. Some are naïve and could benefit from a little education. Others have assessed the field and are making an informed decision.

The state fish and game department’s regulations are a help. Your ability to assess data and your own perception are helpful. But at the end of the day, there is a risk to the resource every time you fish, hunt, or impact nature in any way. Go ahead and do it if you feel like you should. Do it smart, do it selflessly, and do it with a mind towards the fish.